News release

Changes to Ticket Lottery Regulations Benefit Non-profit, Charitable Organizations

Service Nova Scotia (April 2014 - May 2019)

Government is making fundraising easier and more affordable for sport teams, legions, churches and other charitable and non-profit community organizations.

An amendment to the ticket lottery regulations will increase the prize value limit for a ticket lottery permit from $500 to $4,000. This will give organizations greater flexibility when choosing a prize for their fundraising efforts.

“Non-profit and charitable organizations are important pillars in our communities,” said Service Nova Scotia Minister Geoff MacLellan. “We are making this change to help them save money and time and reduce red tape.”

Organizations will now have the opportunity to raise more revenue in a single event. They will be able to reach their fundraising goals sooner with fewer lotteries, reducing the associated work, time and cost. Organizations do not have to pay for a lottery permit. There is a cost associated with a lottery licence, as well as the need to file a report.

“This important change makes sense. I am confident that it will simplify the logistical aspects of our fundraising initiatives and will allow us to direct more of the funds we raise towards our fundraising goals,” said Brandon Rafuse, director, Thunder Selects Basketball.

The Alcohol, Gaming Fuel and Tobacco Division of Service Nova Scotia issues lottery permits and licences under the ticket lottery regulations to charitable and non-profit organizations to conduct and manage a ticket lottery. The prize value is used to distinguish between a permit or a licence. This is the first time the prize value, as defined in regulations, has increased since 1995.

This is an example of government’s ongoing work to reduce red tape for business and citizens.

For more information on lottery permits, licences and fees, visit https://novascotia.ca/sns/pdf/agd-ticketlottery-permits-threshold-now-$4000.pdf .